In 2008, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer launched the Ducati Hypermotard 1100S, a naked machine fitted with high-end elements compared to the standard 1100 model. When the Hypermotard first appeared at the Milan International Motorcycle Show in 2005, it immediately received the "Best of Show" award.
Compared to the standard model, the Hypermotard 1100S was more expensive and fitted with top-shelf parts, such as a diamond-like carbon DLC black coating on the front sliders, an Ohlins rear shock, Brembo brake calipers like the ones used on the 1098 model, and Marchessini wheels with Pirelli tires.
In addition, the bike featured various carbon fiber elements, such as timing belt covers, fork protectors, front fender, and exhausts side panels that reduced the overall weight by two kg (4.4 lbs) from 179 kg (395 lbs) to 177 kg (390 lbs).
Ducati has pushed the motorcycle design to the limit and found an innovative solution for the bike's mirrors. Maintaining a clean, racing look around the handlebar area, designers created a folding mechanism styled on the handguards, like the one found on off-road machines.
In the appearance department, the 2008 Ducati Hypermotard 1100S packed a duck beak-shaped front fairing, a one-piece dual seat, an under-seat-mounted exhaust system, a single-sided swingarm, and 10-spoke lightweight wheels with a red pinstripe on the edge of the rim.
For power, the bike packed a 1,078cc air-cooled V-twin engine that delivered 90 hp with a peak at 7,750 rpm and 103 Nm (76 lb-ft) torque at 4,750 rpm.